Good Morning, Monster: A Therapist Shares Five Heroic Stories of Emotional Recovery

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of racism, mental illness, child abuse, and emotional abuse.

Invite readers to reflect on their broad takeaways and initial reactions to the book.

1. Gildiner refers to her five patients as “psychological heroes.” How did this shift your perspective on what it means to be a hero in real life?

2. How does Gildiner’s tone and approach compare to other books you’ve read about trauma, resilience, or therapy, such as Stephanie Foo’s What My Bones Know or Mark Wolynn’s It Didn’t Start With You?

3. Which story offered the most insight into your own patterns, reactions, or assumptions about mental health? Why do you think it stood out for you?

Help readers relate the book’s lessons to their own life experiences.

1. Gildiner emphasizes the importance of boundaries in her work with Laura. When do you most struggle to hold or honor boundaries?

2. Peter’s connection to music became a healing tool. What activity, space, or relationship has served a similar purpose in your life during difficult times?

3. The book explores how our upbringing leaves lasting psychological imprints.